How to Know If You Have ADHD
ADHD is a disorder that affects 1 in 25 adults. And for those who have it, the symptoms can really interfere with life.
A complete evaluation by a trained professional is the only way to know for sure if you have adhd. Treatment may include medicine to control symptoms, therapy, or both.
What Are The Symptoms Of ADHD
If you or your child have trouble paying attention, focusing or acting impulsively, you may have ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD can show up early in life or continue through adolescence and adulthood.
It is normal for kids to be restless, impatient or impulsive at times, but if those behaviors keep happening over and over again without proper treatment, they could be signs of ADHD.
In order to get a diagnosis, six or more symptoms must be present for at least six months. The symptoms must disrupt daily functioning in more than one setting.
Usually, kids with ADHD have one or more of the three presentations of ADHD – predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or combined. Females are four times more likely than males to have a diagnosis of ADHD in general, according to research.
Causes Of ADHD
ADHD is a condition that can cause serious problems in children and adults. Left untreated, it can lead to school failure, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and family stress and disruption.
Several factors may contribute to the development of ADHD, including genetics and environmental risks. For example, birth defects or brain damage during critical stages of development are known to increase the risk of developing the disorder.
Some studies also have linked ADHD to adverse social and family environments such as low parental education, poverty, bullying/peer victimisation or negative parenting. Despite these findings, it is not clear whether they are a cause of ADHD. Regardless, psychosocial factors might modify ADHD expression in those who are genetically susceptible to the disorder.
Getting Diagnosed With ADHD
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD can be overwhelming. It can feel like a judgment on you or your child.
However, it is crucial to get a diagnosis in order to find out how to manage the condition and its symptoms. Treatment typically includes medication, therapy and behavioural change.
Diagnosis for children is usually made by a team of health professionals. These include physicians, clinical and school psychologists, clinical social workers, speech-language pathologists and learning specialists.
A specialist will ask you about your symptoms, and may also request to see school records or talk with family members who knew you well when you were a child. They will also give you a medical exam to rule out other physical causes for your symptoms.
Risk Factors Of ADHD
There are several factors that can put a person at risk for developing ADHD. These factors include genetics, exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy and infancy, and stress.
There is also a link between socioeconomic status and risk of ADHD in some studies. Children from low-income families are more likely to have ADHD than their peers in high-income families.
It is important to note that while some of these exposures are associated with the development of ADHD, they rarely cause it alone.
There is still much we don’t know about the causes of ADHD. Fortunately, there are steps we can take to help protect our kids from this condition.
Complications Of ADHD
The effects of ADHD can be difficult to live with, especially if it’s not treated. Symptoms can affect social relationships, school work and career success.
Many adults with ADHD also have mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder. The repeated failures, frustrations and setbacks caused by ADHD can worsen these conditions.
Adults with ADHD are at higher risk for other psychiatric problems, including personality disorders, substance abuse and sleep disorders.
Getting an accurate diagnosis and treatment is crucial for children, teens and adults. The right treatments can help prevent serious consequences, such as family stress and disruption, school failure, delinquency, accidents, suicide and depression.
